Veteran actor and comedian RS Shivaji dies at 66

Popular comedian and actor RS Shivaji died in Chennai on Saturday morning, September 2, 2023. The actor predominantly worked in Tamil Cinema. Born in Chennai in 1956 to actor and producer M.R. Santhanam, Shivaji was 66 years old.

Shivaji had a strong collaboration with actor Kamal Haasan and his production house Raaj Kamal Films International, contributing to many successful Tamil projects. Besides acting, Shivaji's career skills extended to assistant direction, sound design, and line production for multiple Tamil films.

Prior to his death, Shivaji's last appearance was in the Yogi Babu-starrer ‘Luckyman,’ released on Friday, September 1.

From a family deeply involved in the film industry, Shivaji's brother, Santhana Bharathi, also enjoys significant fame as an actor and film director. Their father, M.R. Santhanam, was notable for his role in Ellis R. Dungan's ‘Meera’ (1945).

Having started his journey in the 1980s, Shivaji's film career spans over four decades, and he is credited with delivering some remarkable performances in films, including ‘Apoorva Sagodharargal,’ ‘Kolamavu Kokila,’ and ‘Dharala Prabhu.’

Many from the industry took to social media platforms to offer condolences. Film trade analyst Ramesh Bala, expressing his condolences on X, formerly known as Twitter, stated, "Popular Tamil Character/Comedy Actor #RSShivaji passed away in Chennai this morning. He acted in this Friday's release #LuckyMan and has done several memorable roles, including #ApoorvaSagodharargal etc. May his soul RIP!" He leaves behind a cherished film legacy and a generation of admirers.